Review: Timber Timbre – Creep On Creepin’ On

Timber Timbre is a Canadian folk band that has recently shocked the music world with their latest album, Creep On Creepin’ On. The name refers to a set of early recordings that took place in a timber-framed cabin out in the sylvan bounds of Bobcaygeon, Ontario. The band comprised of Taylor Kirk, who is on lead vocals, Simon Trottier and Mika Posen, found their first success with the release of their self-titled album in 2009, with the song “Magic Arrow” being featured on the American drama series Breaking Bad. Their latest album continues their style of music with more of the dark, gloomy, ragged blues and swampy sound that they are known for.

The album starts with “Bad Ritual”, driven by staccato piano with Kirk singing of a departed lover, “there is evidence in boxes, there is proof of your love for him”. “Obelisk” is an instrumental, serving as eerie pause. This track is reminiscent of something from a horror film. “Creep On Creepin’ On” has a rockabilly dance like sound. “Black Water” is a slow ballad with Kirk singing about Viking funerals and longing for better times from the “only spirit that I crave”. This is one of highlights of the album, with creepy lyrics and a climactic horn section. “Swamp Magic” is another instrumental with a dark ambiance that seems to have pulled influence from minimalist music. “Woman” starts with a blazing horn section with humming organ. It’s another ballad that shimmers and is reminiscent of old piano ballads. “Too Old To Die Young” is a more theatrical tune with layers of sound effects and murder tinged strings. “Lonesome Hunter” is another highlight. The beauty of this track illustrates how Kirk turns all the mischief and darkness into a transcendent theme. Kirk sings about the scariness of being in love. “Do I Have Power” picks up the rhythm that starts off with a heavy bass and slowly incorporates piano and the gradual introduction of horns. The album closes off with the third instrumental “Souvenirs”.

Timber Timbre gives us an uncanny, elusive and romantic collection of tunes with special meaning. Kirk does an excellent job of turning what may have been monotonous, to something that is deep and sincere. This is a perfect album for gloomy nights in the middle of nature’s calm and ominous sounds and textures. Listeners who enjoy works of Nick Cave and Leonard Cohen will find something fascinating about this fresh band and their distinct vocalist. After listening to the songs, any listener will want to follow up with what Timber Timbre has to offer next.